The Rhythm of Learning: PGIS Celebrates National Poetry Day in Phuket

We kicked off an exciting new chapter in our curriculum by celebrating National Poetry Day—a wonderful reminder that language isn't just about rules; it’s about sound, imagination, and play.

At Prasan Gateway International School (PGIS), our approach to learning is driven by creativity. We use poetry not just as a subject, but as a powerful tool to strengthen language skills in both English and Chinese. If you’re searching for an international school in Chalong, Phuket, that uses creative learning strategies, read on to discover how our students are growing their voices.

Discovering the Magic in English Poetry

Poetry is unique writing that plays with sounds, rhythm, and feelings. This month, our students have been actively exploring key elements that make poems fun and impactful:

1. Rhyme and Repetition

Learning to spot rhyme (like cat and hat) and repetition is fundamental to early literacy. These patterns help students predict words, which builds confidence and makes reading feel like a game. We've been having fun clapping out the rhythm of poems and finding rhyming pairs, strengthening their reading voices and memory.

2. Alliteration and Imagination

We introduce alliteration—the same first sounds, like 'busy buzzing bees'—to help students hear and isolate individual sounds within words. This creative exercise helps sharpen their phonological awareness. As we use funny voices and actions (like the frog on the poster!), students engage their imagination, unlocking new vocabulary and encouraging expressive language.

Poetry in a Bilingual World: Chinese Immersion

As an all-English school that provides excellent Chinese language classes, poetry becomes a unique bridge between cultures and languages.

Poetry in Mandarin Chinese is particularly useful for our Chinese immersion program because it focuses heavily on sound and tone.

• Tone Practice: Chinese tones are vital for meaning. Learning simple rhymes or short Tang Dynasty poems helps students naturally hear and replicate these precise tones and sounds in a repetitive, musical context.
  

• Cultural Connection: Introducing Chinese poetry gives students a deeper connection to the culture, going beyond simple vocabulary. This integrated, rich learning experience is exactly what parents expect from a leading English/Chinese international school in Thailand.
  

At PGIS, we ensure children understand that language—whether English, Thai or Chinese—is a living, vibrant tool for sharing ideas and having fun. They are encouraged to make their own silly rhymes and share their ideas with "brave voices."

The Culmination: Confidence in Motion and Voice

The true test of our poetry unit is not how well students write the words, but how effectively they perform them. The final performances—featuring group choral speaking and individual recitations—are crucial showcases of holistic development and public speaking skills.

1. The Power of Choral Speaking

In choral poem performance, students read poems aloud together. This activity is vital for our international school in Chalong for several reasons:

• Fluency and Rhythm: By speaking in unison, students naturally fall into the correct rhythm and pace of the language, greatly improving reading fluency and pronunciation in both English and Chinese.

• Safety and Confidence: It provides a safe, supportive environment where hesitant readers gain confidence by blending their voices with the group before facing an audience alone.

• Interpretation: Groups use elements like varied volume (loud/soft), pitch (high/low), and movement to interpret the poem's meaning, turning language arts into performance art.

2. Individual Recitation: The Brave Voice

The individual recitations and acting-out of poems demand mastery of multiple skills learned throughout the unit:

• Articulation and Expression: Students must clearly articulate the words and use expressive language to convey the tone of the poem.

• Physicality (Acting Out): By physically acting out the poem, children connect the abstract concepts of the text (like sadness or joy) to concrete movements and facial expressions, demonstrating deep comprehension and fostering creativity.

• Public Speaking: This builds essential public speaking skills—a key measure of success in international education—reducing stage fright and building the "brave voice" necessary for future leadership.
  

This exciting performance culmination perfectly ties together the rigor of the EYFS/IEYC curriculum with the expressive freedom required for genuine global citizenship.

Come and see the curiosity and confidence that blooms in our vibrant learning environment.

Book a school tour today to visit our Phuket campus and discover the PGIS difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is National Poetry Day and how does PGIS celebrate it? National Poetry Day is a worldwide event celebrating the power of language. PGIS uses it as a kickoff for a dedicated curriculum unit that culminates in a Choral Poem Performance and individual recitations. This focus ensures students apply their understanding of rhythm, articulation, and expression across both our English and Chinese programs.

2. What age groups does PGIS cater to in Phuket? PGIS offers education for children aged 2 to 11 years, providing a seamless curriculum journey from Nursery/Kindergarten through Primary School.

3. Does PGIS offer transportation services? Yes, we currently offer reliable van transportation, including popular routes servicing the Thalang region, ensuring safe and convenient travel to our Chalong campus.

4. Is PGIS a reputable international school near Chalong, Phuket? Yes, PGIS is a licensed international school in Thailand, conveniently located right by Robinson Chalong. We deliver a world-class, fully English curriculum.

5. What skills does the performance teach besides memorization? The performance teaches essential public speaking skills, emotional expression, articulation, and self-confidence, all crucial for success in any international school setting.

6. Does poetry feature in the PGIS Chinese language classes? Yes, we use simple poems and short verses in our Chinese immersion program. This helps students master the complex tones and sounds of Mandarin naturally through music and repetition.

7. What is the educational benefit of Choral Poetry (Group Recitation)? Choral poetry is a key strategy for developing reading fluency, rhythm, and clear articulation. It creates a low-pressure environment for oral practice.

8. What curriculum standards do you use? We use the ENC (English National Curriculum), IEYC (International Early Years Curriculum) and IPC (International Primary Curriculum). You can learn more about our balanced and rigorous approach during a campus visit.

9. What is the nearest landmark to the school? Our campus is very easy to find, located right by Robinson Chalong in South Phuket.

10. How do I book a tour of the PGIS campus in Phuket? To book a school tour today, please visit the admissions section on our official website or call our main office directly to arrange a personalized visit.